ARS ‘Agnouni’ Hosts Mother’s Day Luncheon

NORTH BERGEN, N.J.—The annual Mother’s Day Luncheon sponsored by the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) “Agnouni” Chapter of New Jersey is always an event not to be missed, which held true again this year when, on Wed., May 14, more than 100 supporters attended the event at the elegant Waterside restaurant in North Bergen, located on the edge of the Hudson River across from Manhattan.

“Agnouni” Chapter member Knar Apkarian served as the mistress of ceremonies, and warmly welcomed the guests who were seated at the flower-bedecked tables of the banquet hall, enjoying breathtaking views of New York City’s skyline. The event started with the singing of the ARS anthem. Apkarian then invited Yeretzgin Ani Bozoian to bless the tables.

Following a delicious luncheon, Apkarian invited the Zulal A Cappella Trio to the stage. The group takes old village folk melodies and weaves them into intricate arrangements that pay tribute to the rural roots of Armenian music, while introducing sophisticated lyricism and energy. Zulal’s singers, Teni Apelian, Yeraz Markarian, and Anais Tekerian, entertained the audience with their beautiful voices and music.

Margaret Babikian-Medina, a representative of the ARS of Eastern USA Board of Directors, was invited to the podium, and thanked the chapter and congratulated its members on the event. The members were honored and recited Baruyr Sevag’s moving and inspirational poem “A Mother’s hands” in English.

Apkarian then introduced the chair of the “Agnouni” Chapter, Talin Daghlian, to the crowd, noting, “Ungerouhi Talin is a very well-known ungerouhi and an active member of ARS family and our community.”

Daghlian welcomed the guests and announced that the “Agnouni” Chapter was honoring two members, Tanya Mekredijian and Jacqueline Stanboulian, who have been devoted, generous, and active members of the ARS for a long time. Addressing the honorees, she said, “This year’s turnout is a testimony to the love and respect the New Jersey community has for both of you,”

“Our chapter was established on Oct. 21, 1978, and since its foundation, it has celebrated Mother’s Day. The 2005-06 executive members of our chapter started honoring our members during our Mother’s Day celebration, and I cannot find a better way to celebrate Mothers’ Day than to honor and show our appreciation to them,” she continued. “We believe mothers are God’s most treasured gifts given to us.”

Daghlian went on to say, “We are gathered here today to honor Ungerouhiner Tanya and Jacqueline and their selfless commitment and dedication to the ARS and our local community. They have been long-standing members of the Armenian community, admired and loved for their unwavering commitment and devotion to their families, and community.”

Following their introduction, Mekredijian and Stanboulian were invited to the podium and presented with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Sanan Guyikian, Mekredijian’s 10-year-old granddaughter, was invited to the podium to honor members with her beautiful voice. She dedicated the song to her grandmother and all of the mothers.

Stanboulian thanked the ARS “Agnouni” Chapter and promised that both of them would stay true to the ARS mission.

Vana Alashaian and Marina Tarpinian led the enthusiastic raffle drawing and, with the help of other chapter members, distributed 34 elegant prizes to the winners.

In closing remarks, Apkarian thanked the guests, the chapter members for their tireless hours in making the event a success, Ani Krichian and Natalie Darakjian for the beautiful centerpieces, and the generous donors of the raffle prizes.

As usual, it was a memorable afternoon and a wonderful Mother’s Day celebration.